Linden Ponds' Woodshop Supports Local Preschool Students

At Linden Ponds, an Erickson Senior Living community in Hingham, Mass., the sound of pounding hammers and scent of wood stain often fill the hallway just outside the on-campus woodshop, open to residents of all skill levels.

Since the community opened 20 years ago, the woodshop has evolved from a small, traditional shop into a cooperative, two-room amenity run by more than 30 members.

"The woodshop is a great place filled with some of the best equipment money can buy," says resident and shop member Tom Zarle. "I believe it's better equipped than most professional woodshops!"

He adds, "It's really grown into a gathering place. Throughout the day, you'll find folks down here sharing and doing things together."

It's this togetherness that has resulted in a number of impactful volunteer projects--one of which is the creation of wooden toys and games for preschoolers attending Head Start in Brockton, Mass.

Giving back

"One of our members was quietly, on his own, making wooden toys for his daughter, who works for the Brockton Regional Head Start Program," recalls Tom.

The toys and games are used to teach children important skills such as counting, spelling, shape recognition, and sharing.

"A few members saw these beautiful toys and began pitching in," he says.

When members started displaying the toys in the woodshop's windows, word spread very quickly across campus.

"As soon as residents learned of our efforts, they began coming into the shop to donate money so we could buy more materials to make more toys," says Tom. "We also have several residents who volunteer their time painting the toys." He adds warmly, "It's quite a team effort now."

Recently, several shop members personally took a few boxes of the toys to Head Start and were gifted beautiful thank-you cards signed by the children. The interaction motivated them to design new toys that teach the same important skills in different fun, engaging ways.

Everyone is welcome

While many members bring prior woodworking experience to the shop, others are discovering a love for the skill in retirement.

"Our group is made up of a wide range of people, from those who tinker to real artisans. Our membership includes crafters, hobbyists, woodcarvers, and even a stained-glass artisan and a silversmith," says Tom. "Others come by the shop to repair a picture frame or to locate a screw or hook to hang a picture. No matter the reason, everyone is welcome."

On a daily basis, members work on individual projects, including bookcases, bowl turning, lathe work, and model ships.

They also share their expertise to help repair furniture or create items for neighbors. In fact, some members have assisted in building sets for Linden Ponds' theater productions and contributed handcrafted items to the community's annual Harvest Fair.

"We never charge for the work we do--just merely ask for a donation," says Tom. "Linden Ponds community members are very generous."

Work on display

Two windows in the woodshop give neighbors the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the crafters at work. Shelves built inside the windows display a rotating selection of recently completed projects.

"Once people could see what we are up to, we noticed an immediate growth in our membership. People with new interests and skills are joining our group," says Tom.

All newcomers are offered member-led instruction on the various tools and taught safety precautions.

This year, the group plans on offering classes on a variety of skills, including wood carving, lathe turning, and model boat building.

Stop by and see!

"One of the best things about our group is that we learn from each other and enjoy sharing ideas," says Tom. "The woodshop is a really fun, interesting place to be, and we welcome anyone interested to stop by and say hello, maybe even start a project. It's a very friendly, communal experience."

To learn more about senior living at this vibrant community, request your free brochure to get the scoop on amenities, floor plans, and so much more.

By Kelly Shue